Making a personal injury claim is only one step in your journey to recovery. At Switalskis, our support doesn’t stop once the legal process begins or ends. We know that life after a claim can still bring challenges - from managing your compensation to adjusting to life with an injury. That’s why we stay by your side, offering ongoing support, practical advice, and a listening ear.

Below, you’ll find guidance on how to manage your compensation payout, return to work, access rehabilitation and emotional support, and look after your long-term wellbeing. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey - Switalskis is here to help even after the legal process has completed.

After an injury, returning to work can feel both hopeful and daunting. Whether you’re eager to get back to your old job or need to explore a new career path, a safe and positive return often depends on having the right support in place. Our experience has shown that with the correct approach, most people can successfully resume work in some capacity, though it may require patience and adjustments. Here are some points to consider:

• Consult your doctor: your health comes first. Always get your GP or specialist’s advice on when it’s medically safe to return to work, and in what capacity. They may provide a fit note (formerly known as a sick note) detailing what you can and cannot do. This note can recommend adjustments, such as reduced hours or lighter duties as you ease back into work, that can make your return more comfortable. Listen to your body and don’t rush back before you’re ready, because returning too soon could hinder your recovery.
• Phase your return to work: UK employment guidance from ACAS suggests that phased returns are often appropriate after a serious injury or long absence. Starting with a few half-days a week or a lighter workload will help you build up stamina and confidence gradually. Talk to your employer about a return-to-work plan that suits your situation. Most reasonable employers will be open to this, as it can be mutually beneficial.
• Workplace adjustments and your rights: if your injury has caused any long-term impairment or disability, your employer has a legal duty to consider “reasonable adjustments” to help you do your job. This could include modifying your work station, changing some duties, allowing more frequent breaks, or offering flexible hours​. If you feel you’re not getting the necessary support or are facing pressure at work due to your injury, contact us and we can provide you with guidance on the next steps to take.
• Exploring new roles: in some cases, an injury might mean you can’t go back to the exact job you did before. This can be challenging to accept, but it also opens the door to new opportunities. You might consider retraining for a different role that suits your abilities, or even changing career paths entirely. The government’s Access to Work scheme can fund adjustments or special equipment to help you do a job if you have a health condition or disability​. Additionally, certain charities and organisations offer employment services for people with disabilities, including training and job placement support. Don’t be afraid to seek out these resources - many people discover new skills and fulfilling careers after an injury.

Returning to work after an injury often involves a period of adjustment, and it’s not something you have to face on your own. With the right medical advice, workplace arrangements and practical support, many people find a way to return to employment.

Our commitment to you doesn’t end with securing compensation. We can help connect you with healthcare professionals and support services to assist with the transition and support your long-term wellbeing. Take your time, explore your options and make use of the resources available to you.

It’s completely normal to feel stress, anxiety, or even depression after what you’ve been through. Some people experience severe stress - for example, flashbacks of the accident or fear of driving again after a road collision. Recognising these feelings is the first step, the next step is seeking support to address them. There are many forms of emotional and psychological support available:

• Talking therapy: speaking with a counsellor or psychologist can help you work through trauma or adjust to life after an injury. Your GP can refer you to the NHS talking therapies programme, which offers support for conditions like anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. These sessions can be delivered online, by phone or face to face, depending on availability in your area. If NHS waiting times are long or you’d prefer more flexibility, you might choose to invest your compensation payout in a private therapist. Approaches like cognitive behavioural therapy are widely used and can be particularly helpful in building coping strategies and changing negative thought patterns.
• Support groups: connecting with others who’ve experienced similar injuries can provide reassurance and a sense of belonging. Many charities run peer support groups where you can share your experiences, ask questions, and talk openly in a supportive environment. You can usually find local group details through the charities' websites or ask your GP or rehabilitation team for recommendations.
• Helplines and online communities: Online forums and virtual meetups can also be a helpful option if you prefer to talk from home or can't find a local group nearby. The Samaritans (dial 116 123 for free) offer 24/7 listening support if you’re feeling distressed or alone. For more specific advice, charities like Mind have excellent resources on coping with trauma and anxiety with links to phone and text services. Online forums can also provide a sense of community and understanding - just make sure any advice you take from the internet is from reputable sources.

Looking after your emotional wellbeing isn’t always straightforward, but through therapy, group support or simply reaching out to someone who understands, there are ways to manage how you feel and move forward.